Sneakers have become an undoubtedly important part of our wardrobes and one of our favourite parts of getting dressed, but keeping up with all the new releases, must-have sneakers, and trending kicks can be a complicated game.
2022 has brought with it plenty of hot and of-the-moment sneakers and interesting (and often unexpected) collaborations. Still, while trends come and go, a handful of pairs have remained on our radars - and wishlists - long enough to establish themselves as having long-term lace-worthy appeal.
So if, like us, you're a sucker for a cool pair of kicks, but maybe you haven't managed to stay abreast of this year's releases, we've done the leg work for you and scoured the launches of the last 12 months to pull together a list of the only sneakers that - in our opinion - mattered this year.
Ahead, ten pairs of sneakers worth getting on your feet before the end of 2022.
Salomon XT-6 Sneakers
PRICE FROM: $236
A Salomon classic since 2013, the 2022 versions of the XT-6 trainers bring a cool brown mesh colourway and a foot-moulding OrthoLite insole for comfortable wear. Shop here.
JJJJound Asics Gel-Kayano 14
PRICE FROM: $416
A redesigned version of the original Asics Gel-Kayano 14, this pair has been upgraded with an on-trend silver synthetic leather overlay, white mesh base and white JJJJound logo. Shop here.
New Balance Gray Made in USA 990v3 Core Sneakers
PRICE FROM: $360
The 990's original designers were tasked with creating the single best running shoe on the market, and this classic sneaker has been a wardrobe staple ever since. Shop here.
Maison Margiela x Reebok Project 0 Nylon Sneaker
PRICE FROM: $574
The Maison Margiela x Reebok sneaker combines the iconic design characteristics of the French fashion house with one of Reebok's most recognisable designs. Shop here.
Nike x Tom Sachs General Purpose Shoe Sneakers
PRICE FROM: $1,097
Released in June 2022, this collaboration sneaker is a minimalist, do-everything shoe that can be styled in endless ways. Shop here.
Adidas x Gucci Gazelle Pink
PRICE FROM: $1,842
This bold and bright collaboration between Adidas and Gucci brings a touch of Gucci's luxe aesthetic to the unofficial sneaker of the season. Shop here.
Marni x Veja V-15 Scribble-Print Sneakers
PRICE FROM: $437
These multicoloured high-top V-15 sneakers mark the perfect collaboration between Marni and Veja. Shop here.
Nike x Union LA Dunk Low Sneakers
PRICE FROM: $589
Designed in partnership with Union LA, these Nike Dunks are an updated version of the iconic sneaker. Shop here.
Nike Kobe 6 Protro Mambacita Sweet 16
PRICE FROM: $841
Released in May 2022, these black snakeskin sneakers pay tribute to the late Gigi Bryant and the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation. Shop here.
New Balance x Joe Freshgoods 9060 Sneakers
PRICE FROM: $836
Featuring a bold and exaggerated design inspired by the y2k era, these sneakers bring the perfect balance of playfulness and style. Shop here.
Nike x Drake Hot Step Air Terra Nocta Sneakers
PRICE FROM: $589
Worn by the Canadian rapper during his 'Laugh Now, Cry Later' music video, these Nike sneakers are sure to be loved by those who prefer a monochromatic aesthetic. Shop here.
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD Unisex
PRICE: $280
The recent rise in popularity of Onitsuka Tiger has seen the brand reinvent a variety of their iconic sneakers, including the Mexico 66 SD. Shop here.
Hoka One One Mafate Speed 2
PRICE FROM: $231
While they are built to withstand the toughest of running terrains, these Mafate Speed 2 sneakers quickly became a popular streetwear staple. Shop here.
Louis Vuitton Nike Air Force 1 Low By Virgil Abloh White Green
PRICE FROM: $6,561
A cultural symbol in its own right, this collaboration between Louis Vuitton's men's artistic director Virgil Abloh and Nike has become a true collector's item. Shop here.
Loewe Flow Runner Suede Sneakers
PRICE FROM: $690
While they might not be your typical streetwear brand, these beige suede Loewe sneakers were all over Instagram this year thanks to the fashion set. Shop here.
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Image credit: New Balance| Nike x Louis Vuitton | Gucci x Adidas, StockX
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